December, 2006

Over the last five years there have been significant changes at WVU relative to Extended Learning and the role of dean.  While this report is an interactive accounting of that timeframe for the review of the Dean of Extended Learning, it is also the story of Extended Learning.  Since taking leadership responsibilities for Extended Learning in the mid 1990’s, the goal has consistently been to increase enrollment in full-fees courses. Accomplishment of this overall goal required focused objectives to: a) diversify programming and delivery of educational offerings, b) infuse greater accessibility and range of student services, and c) integrate Extended Learning into the operations and core planning across West Virginia University.

The components of this review highlight specific initiatives that advance Extended Learning’s objectives cited above.  Extended Learning now serves students predominately engaged in distance learning or blended programming.

This is a major shift from the last five years when outreach consisted primarily of site-based programming for teachers in professional development or masters programs. A broader variety of programming exists than at anytime in institutional outreach history.

Currently, every College at WVU is engaged in online or blended course delivery which is a dramatic increase from the one College dominance of the past.

Student services are conveniently accessible as students can inquire about programming, register, pay bills, check grades, learn, interact, and evaluate instruction online or, in some instances, by toll-free phone call. Perhaps most significantly, Extended Learning has become more fully integrated into core planning functions as West Virginia University. Colleges incorporate online, off-campus and Summer revenue as a vital component of all funds budgeting. OIT and Extended Learning collaborate on e-Campus infrastructure, leadership, and integration. Admissions and Records and Extended Learning work collaboratively on processing of Professional Development students, Banner enhancements, Summer term implications, and a myriad of student services.

The strategic shift in focus to expand beyond regional site-based classes to e-learning also required personnel restructuring. With the assistance of Noel Levitz and much literature, our personnel structure is migrating toward a stronger recruitment and inquiry responsive organization.  Communications and outstanding student support will continue to be our mantra even as we explore ways to enhance student services through a dynamic web presence.

It is difficult to speak of the role of dean or even to assume credit for many of the elements in this report as all of my actions are supported by the contributions of an outstanding staff in Extended Learning as well as a multitude of talented individuals across West Virginia University.  The partnerships cultivated across the West Virginia University are critical to the success of Extended Learning and the students we serve. My appreciation for their willingness to become engaged when I did not have a line of authority is manifested in the accomplishments noted throughout this document. Thus, I hope to steal a page from the Velveteen Rabbit and acknowledge the many people who rally around my enthusiasm and ideas to make them real.